And directly to your comment - with 1/2 of the tax and 1/2 of the withholding on each return, whatever balance is due would become 1/2 her problem. He could meet his tax obligation by filing a return and paying whatever he separately owed. The balance of the tax obligation would be hers and her problem.

I like it. I'll file the extension for now, then prepare a joint return. And if she won't sign, this approach is a fall back.

I hope it won't come to that. While things have gotten really rough this year, I'm hoping that when she's faced with issues like this she'll finally consider counseling.

Announcements

Disclaimer:
In accordance with IRS Circular 230, you cannot use the contents of any post on The Motley Fool's message boards to avoid tax-related penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or applicable state or local tax law provisions.

When Life Gives You Lemons
We all have had hardships and made poor decisions. The important thing is how we respond and grow. Read the story of a Fool who started from nothing, and looks to gain everything.

Work for Fools?
Winner of the Washingtonian great places to work, and Glassdoor #1 Company to Work For 2015! Have access to all of TMF's online and email products for FREE, and be paid for your contributions to TMF! Click the link and start your Fool career.